Enough Time

 "For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead."

— 1 Peter 4:3-5

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

Thank You for the day when I realized I had spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do. Those days are long behind me and I thank You for pulling me out of that life. I know that my life today is strange and they are astonished that I live differently. Today this shows up when non-believers are shocked that I don't value what they value. My beliefs about sexuality, gender, morality, and self-control are confusing and even repulsive to those who are far from God. As a result, they feel the conviction of their sin. That feeling is detestable to them so they heap abuse on me, inviting others to affirm their lifestyle and ridicule mine.

What is sad is that in 2000 years since Peter wrote this letter, human behavior hasn't changed. These verses still ring predictably true. People far from God continue to spend their lives living for themselves, for pleasure, for their senses. And when Christ-followers don't join them, they show disdain for them. But there will be a day when every one of them will stand before their Creator and have to give an account for how they lived. In that moment, it will be evident what a waste they have made of their life. So much promise, calling, possibility, simply thrown away in the pursuit of sin and pleasure.

Lord Jesus, may I reach those who are still reachable. May they come to their senses and recognize that they will stand before a holy God to give account for their lives. May they turn around realizing they've spent enough time living that way.

— In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen!

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